Speak Softly & Carry Your Own Gym Key

A Female High School Principal's Guide to Survival

"Funny, somber, incisive, touching...both men and women can relate to this totally engrossing account of what may be the most difficult job in education. Written by an outstanding educator who's sensitive, succinct, and witty, this book is a facinating journaey through the absurdities, triumphs, and tragedies of the modern American high school. I love this book!" Leonard O. Pellicer Chair, Educational Leadership and Policies University of South Carolina Written for men and for women, this new guide shows you what it really means--and what it takes--to be an effective educational leader. Hicks presents a practical, poignant, and sometimes painful look at the role of a woman principal at a large, middle class high school. Eloquently written and easy-to-read, this book gives you insights into the special challenges she faced during her four years in the principalship and how she met those challenges. Includes observations on: * How to deal with free, mostly worthless advice * Why you can't please everyone * How to make inroads into the brotherhood * How to take care of your real customers--your students * Where to look for help and good advice * When to say when, and how to say it Hicks raises issues that are universal in scope. Practitioners at all levels will relate to her reflective look at the high school principalship, and academics will gain insights from her practitioner's perspective. No matter what your position on the "gender issue," you'll find enlightenment here.